If passed into law, this legislation would amend the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) to enable states, local communities, colleges, existing Corps, and non-profits to replicate and expand one of the most successful models for reconnecting “opportunity youth” to education, the workforce, and their communities. Under the Youth Corps model, adult leaders serve as mentors and trainers for crews of Corpsmembers as they gain work experience, receive educational programming, and learn the skills necessary to succeed in the workplace, through service projects in their communities or on public lands.

Since the start of the economic recession, youth unemployment rates have remained at historically high levels, and to an intensified degree for youth from disadvantaged backgrounds. Service and Conservation Corps help combat the lack of unemployment and training opportunities for youth. Since it was established in 1985, members of the The Corps Network have collectively engaged more than 750,000 young people nationwide.

“We can only rebuild our economy by rebuilding opportunity for our young people. I introduced The Youth Corps Act of 2013 to provide young people with the skills, work ethic, and opportunity needed to succeed,” said Representative Wilson.

“We are thrilled that Representative Wilson has introduced the Youth Corps Act. This legislation would provide concrete, proven pathways to employment for America’s youth through Service and Conservation Corps programs that train, educate, and prepare youth for life and career success,” said Mary Ellen Ardouny, President and CEO of The Corps Network.

About The Corps Network

The Corps Network is the voice of the nation’s 127 Service and Conservation Corps. Currently operating in every state and the District of Columbia, Corps annually enroll more than 27,000 young men and women in service every year. Since its creation in 1985, The Corps Network has provided national leadership and promoted the growth and quality of its member Corps as they provide education, workforce development, and an ethic of stewardship to diverse youth who address important community and conservation needs. Corps mobilize an additional 289,000 community volunteers who work alongside Corpsmembers to generate 638,684 additional hours of service every year, at an estimated value of $14,140,463.